Expect regular power blackouts and limited access to electricity in some areas of Uruguay, we suggest bringing a power bank if you need to keep your phone charged whilst in an area without electricity or during a blackout.

If you're travelling to Uruguay from America then you will need to use a suitable plug adapter for Uruguay to fit a US plug in a Uruguayan power outlet. As the voltage is different in Uruguay bring a power converter for Uruguay if your device isn't dual voltage and ensure that it will work with a 50hz power outlet.

If your device is 230 volts or is dual voltage and the plug will fit in a Uruguayan power outlet then it can work in Uruguay without needing anything else.

If your device is 230 volts or is dual voltage but the plug won't fit in a Uruguayan power outlet then you will need to bring a suitable plug adapter for Uruguay such a Type F plug adapter. Please be aware that a plug adapter for Uruguay (or power adapter) will only change the actual shape of the plug on your device to fit into a plug outlet found in Uruguay, but doesn't convert the voltage from 230 volts to a different voltage.

If your device is unable to use 230 volts and isn't dual voltage then you'll also need a power converter for Uruguay to convert the voltage from 230 volts to the correct voltage on your device. You will still need to bring along a suitable plug adapter for Uruguay if your power converter doesn't have the correct Type F plug adapter.

If you only want to power USB devices such as cell phones or tablets then a USB travel power adapter is suitable and it should work with any voltage, however ensure that you choose to bring one which includes a Type F plug adapter otherwise you will also need to pack a suitable plug adapter for Uruguay. [3]

Warning: If your device won't handle the 230 volts used in Uruguay you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your device. Before attempting to use your device in Uruguay please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Power adapters for Uruguay

When planning a trip to Uruguay it's helpful to know if you'll be able to use all your important devices when you arrive. But, by not knowing which plug socket is being used you may bring the wrong charger, meaning needing to purchase a potentially overpriced power adaptor on arrival which could be incompatible. Various standards and plugs can often be confusing when planning to travel to a different country if you've never visited before. With only a handful of different types of common standards used in the world this guide shows exactly what you'll need in advance to power your electronics in Uruguay. This page has links to instructions showing which power adapters you'll need to supply power to your devices when you're visiting Uruguay using their F, C, I or L type 230 volt 50Hz power outlets, Type F plug outlets are normally used by most Uruguayans. Most power adapters differ from region to region so please read the WikiConnections world power adapters page for a full list showing regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for Uruguay?

The best power adapter for Uruguay is a Type F power adapter which is suitable for powering any 230 volt appliance or device. [3]

What is a power adapter for a Uruguayan power outlet?

Power adapters are small and lightweight plastic adapters that allow a different type of power plug on an appliance from a different country to correctly fit into a Uruguayan power outlet. [5]

Will a power adapter convert the voltage in Uruguay?

Power adapters only adapt the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt Uruguayan power outlet and is unable to convert to a different voltage. If you wish to safely use a 100, 110 or 120 volt appliance you also need a step down power converter.

Do I need a plug adapter for Uruguay?

Do I need a power adapter if I'm visiting Uruguay from Canada?

If you are travelling from Canada use a power adapter for Uruguay as Canadian plugs won't fit into a Uruguayan power outlet, and as the voltage is 230 volts you will also need to use a power converter for Uruguay to prevent damage or overheating to your device or appliance if it isn't dual voltage.

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What does a power adapter for Uruguay do?

A power adapter for Uruguay enables a visitor travelling from another location to use their electronic appliances and devices in Uruguay simply by changing the shape of the power plug from one shape to another.

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for Uruguay in Canada

Uruguay to Canadian power adapters will most likely be available in most major Canadian International airports prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists such as Relay, The Source or 6&Sundry, but expect to pay more than regular prices. Airports will be your last chance to buy a power adapter before departure, always check the returns policy to ensure you can easily exchange or refund a faulty or unsuitable product in an airside shop.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. Best Buy, Costco, Home Depot and other high street electrical stores normally sell a limited range of travel adapters to popular locations however for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online.

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in Uruguay

On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.

Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.

Travel Power Strips

Benefits of a travel power strip

Able to charge several appliances and devices at once via a single Uruguayan power outlet, costing C$25-C$30.

Certain models of power strips are able to convert voltage for low wattage electronics such as laptops. Even if the electronic device isn't dual voltage it should still work with a Uruguayan power outlet when using only a travel power strip, making them a cheap and lightweight alternative option to a dedicated power converter.

Most modern travel power strips should also feature a number of USB charging ports.

Offers surge protection. Voltage from power outlets in certain areas might be unstable, a sudden power surge might damage your delicate electronics. Some travel power strips will have a built in surge protector to protect your electronics from being overloaded by an unstable power grid.

The power strip can potentially still be of use back at home as a power strip.

US and Canadian power strips include Type A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N plug adapters so should work in Uruguay.

Disadvantages of a travel power strip

Unlike a normal power converter, the voltage converter on a travel power strip won't work with higher wattage appliances such as clothes irons and hair dryers.

Because of the weight of a power strip it might be too bulky for hand luggage.

Travel power strips might be excessive if you only have a small number of items which need powering. [8]

Power Plug Adapters

Benefits of a power plug adapter

Disadvantages of a power plug adapter

1 power adapter for each device - for every separate device or appliance you want to bring you'll also need to bring a separate power plug adapter.

A plug adapter only changes the actual shape of the plug to fit in a Type F Uruguayan power outlet but doesn't change the actual voltage used in Uruguay, so if your appliance doesn't work with 230 volts and isn't dual voltage then you will also need to pack a separate voltage converter.

Should you intend on travelling to more than just one country then you might need to pack more than one type of power adapter for other countries.

If you wish to power any USB device then you also still need to pack a domestic USB charger as well.

Your hotel room in Uruguay may only have a single power outlet available, so you'll only be able to power one device at a time. [3]

Voltage Converters

Benefits of a voltage converter

A voltage converter has a built in surge protector to protect your electronics from being overloaded.

Disadvantages of a voltage converter

It only changes the 230 volts from a Uruguayan power outlet and won't change the actual shape of the plug to slot into a Uruguayan power outlet, therefore you will still be required to use the correct type of plug adapter for Uruguay.

The typical size and weight of most models makes them impractical for carrying in carry-on baggage.

A voltage converter won't be useful after your visit to Uruguay.

Often less expensive and more practical to purchase a dual voltage travel appliance than to buy an expensive power converter simply in order to use your existing single voltage domestic appliance abroad.

Costly - C$110-C$120.

Canadians going to Uruguay will need one as the voltage is 230 volts. [10]

Uruguay power outlets and plug sockets

What plug sockets are used in Uruguay?

There are four different types of power supply used in Uruguay, these are type F, C, I and L with the primary power supply being type F:

Plug Type C - You can recognise the power outlet by 2 round adjacent holes.

Plug Type F - You can identify this wall outlet by two adjacent holes and grounding clips on the top and bottom.

Plug Type I - You can identify this power outlet by 3 slots in an upside-down triangular shape with a single vertical pin at the bottom and the top pair of slots sloping upwards for the live, neutral and earth blades.

Plug Type L - The squashed hexagon shaped power socket, technically known as a type L power outlet, can be recognised by the three large round adjecent holes forming a line for live, neutral and earth pins. Note that there are two different types of Type L plug socket, one rated at 10 amps and one at 16 amps. The 10 amp version has 4mm thick round pins that are spaced 5.5mm apart, whilst the 16 amp version has slightly larger 5mm thick round pins that are spaced 8mm apart.[3]

Do Canadian plugs work in Uruguay?

No - a Canadian plug won't work in Uruguay because it won't fit into a Uruguayan power outlet without using a power adapter. The voltage is 230 volts so use a power converter if your charger or appliance isn't dual voltage and check that your device or appliance is compatible with a 50hz power outlet.

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How do I use a 110 volt appliance in Uruguay?

Is the voltage in Uruguay the same as Canada?

The voltage from a Uruguayan power outlet is 230 volts, however Canadians use 120 volts. If your Canadian charger or appliance can't handle dual voltage then you should use a power converter for a Uruguayan power outlet which allows a 120 volt Canadian appliance to work in a 230 volt outlet.

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What electrical frequency is used with a Uruguayan power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current found in a Uruguayan power outlet is 50Hz. [11]

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_electricity_by_country

Are electrical outlets in Uruguay the same as in Canada?

A Canadian plug won't fit in a Uruguayan power outlet therefore you will need to bring a plug adapter for Uruguay. Both the voltage and frequency are different so if your appliance or charger isn't dual voltage please use a power converter for Uruguay and check that it works with a 50hz power outlet.

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Does Uruguay have power outages?

Uruguay suffers power blackouts on a monthly basis.

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What is access to electricity like in Uruguay?

Almost 5% of the population of the country doesn't have access to electricity.

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Should I use a power bank in Uruguay?

As electrical power isn't available in all areas of Uruguay together with problems with the stability of power, visitors should use backup charging solutions if they want to continue charging devices such as phones or eReaders.

Whilst travelling increased use of mobile phones for storing itineraries, taking photographs, social network sharing, getting directions and streaming videos could syphon off power towards the end of the day. A flat mobile phone battery could potentially leave you without enough power to make emergency calls or being able to use a satellite navigation app to get directions to your accommodation.
Packing a 10,000mAh power bank lowers the risk as it allows you to keep your smart phone powered without needing a Uruguayan power outlet, especially when visiting a country with limited access to electricity and power outages in some areas.

Look for at least a 10,000mAh portable charger which will supply enough electricity to power over three full charges whilst a 20,000mAh portable charger should keep an average cell phone charged for roughly seven days depending on the model of phone and usage. The mAh value (milli ampere-hours) shows the capacity of a battery and gives an indication of the number of charge cycles the portable charger is capable of, so a higher mAh is more suitable for travellers.

Should you need to charge your laptop with a power bank in Uruguay and it uses a USB-C charging port then look for a portable charger for a laptop marked with PD (power delivery) and a model supplying at least 20 Wh.

Be aware that some airlines don't allow you bring batteries on an aircraft that supply 100Wh of power or more and must not be kept in the hold so always ahead with the airline first.

Will a solar powered charger work in Uruguay?

The sunshine in Uruguay should be adequate enough to charge solar power bank reliability, but needs to be left in strong sunshine to produce enough power for a single charge. This might prove inconvenient to continually unpack a solar power bank and wait for it to recharge in sunny spells.

The much larger panels found on a solar backpack give the bag the ability to generate more power within a faster period of time and might generate charge when cloudy, making them ideal for the climate in Uruguay.

Phones which are plugged directly into a USB port of a backpack should trickle charge the battery during sunny periods in Uruguay, but might be inconvenient to have it continually connected to the bag if it is to be used frequently. Therefore it is recommended to plug a normal power bank to a solar backpack which can then be constantly topped up inside the bag during sunlight, afterwards the phone can be recharged using the power bank without needing the bag.

Although the sunlight in Uruguay is strong, a bag should ideally have a solar cell efficiency of at least 22%, be able to generate at least 6 watts of energy and can be used with a 10,000mAH power bank or greater.

The flexible and durable solar cells used in solar powered bags have been built to endure bending and scratching, unlike regular firm solar cells. They come in backpack, messenger and rucksack styles making them ideal for work, domestic and travel. [4][17][18]

What is a USB travel power charger?

What USB charger do I need for Uruguay?

When you are travelling with more than just one device or visiting multiple countries then the best international travel power adapter for Uruguay to buy is a multiple USB port adapter which includes compatible plugs such as a 4 port USB travel charger. There are four different standards of wall outlets in Uruguay (types F, C, I and L) and bringing this will ensure that you are covered for type C.

As these types of chargers are supplied with interchangeable pins and handle 100 - 240 volts it makes them ideal for multiple countries around the world simply by switching the included plugs. If your device is compatible with Fast Charge then you will benefit from quicker charging times with one of these power chargers plus support for certain power demanding devices. Having a four port charger means you can power multiple devices at once without needing to pack seperate power chargers. Because you are only bringing a single travel charger will help keep the size down, making it perfect to store in hand baggage as well as being convenient for charging your devices at an airport or on the flight. Because of their space saving versatility these types of travel chargers can be used back at home as well as abroad so when you're not travelling they can sit under your bedside table charging multiple smartphones and tablets without using up an additional power outlet.

If you travel frequently we recommend searching for this type of versatile travel adapter online, the multipurpose travel adapter illustrated below is the 4 Port USB Wall Charger which has been tested successfully for recharging multiple USB devices in numerous foreign countries around the world on a daily basis. [6]

Why use a travel USB charger for Uruguay?

Typically travel USB chargers include multiple USB charger ports, meaning you now only need to bring one charger to charge multiple devices. This helps reduce the weightand size of your luggage by only packing a single USB wall charger rather than bringing numerous chargers.

Most travel USB chargers include interchangeable plug heads for different power outlet types making them suitable when visiting other countries which will probably use different standards to Uruguay.

Good chargers are compact, rugged and lightweight - ideal for rigors of travel rather than risking bringing a domestic charger which might be hard to replace in Uruguay.

USB chargers will accept the 230 volt power outlets in Uruguay and different voltage standards across the world.

There is a chance that accommodation or hotel bedrooms in Uruguay might only have a single wall outlet, by using a travel charger with multiple USB ports means you can share out the single power supply with family or other traveler rather than having to wait to recharge each device one by one.

Because of their flexible nature they take the worry out of travelling to an unknown destination as they are guaranteed to work practically anywhere in the world.

Power outlets found in airports can be sparse and the demand for charging multiple cell phones from other passengers during departure can be high, therefore a USB travel charger with multiple ports and the capability to fast charge is perfect.

Sometimes the power grid in a country can be unstable, a good quality travel USB charger allows for unexpected surges and will help prevent damage to any devices attached to it. Attempting to repair an overloaded cell phone or tablet in Uruguay could prove to be difficult and costly.

Premium USB travel chargers will also include a power outlet strip to allow you to plug in multiple low wattage domestic appliances such as laptops, however these will be unsuitable for high powered domestic such as hair dryers or clothes irons. Read the guide on using travel appliances with a Uruguayan power outlet for useful advice on the most suitable power adapter for a Uruguayan power outlet for high powered devices.

Certain mobile phones and tablets could require more than the normal 500 milliamps supplied by a normal 5 volt USB adapter to charge or provide fast charge. Higher priced USB chargers will support fast charging incase some of your devices require additional power.

On back at home travel USB chargers can also be useful by charging multiple mobile phones every day using one power outlet. [6]

What is the best USB charger for Uruguay?

A 4 port USB travel charger is the most compact option for travellers from any country who only have USB devices, but for visitors also wanting to use their domestic plugs these power converters provide larger but more versatile solutions. All three power converters offer surge protection which is useful for visitors of regions with unreliable power grids. These travel converters come with interchangeable type C, I and G plugs covering both Uruguay and over 150 countries around the world:

ORICO Traveling Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip - Also having 4 USB ports but only 2 AC power outlets the travel adapter from Orico is also aimed at travellers from the US using type B plugs and is a more cost effective alternative to the BESTEK with one less AC outlet for almost half price.

BESTEK International USB Travel Power Strip - This power strip has just 2 AC outlets but offers 5 USB charging ports. This versatile power strip is compatible with both American plugs and popular plug types A, D,E/F, G, H, I, L and N making it perfect for most travellers from around the world visiting Uruguay. [6]

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

A heavy and expensive power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a Uruguayan power outlet to work with a non-230 volt device, however a more lightweight and smaller power adapter(or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your appliance to slot into a power outlet in Uruguay. [19]

Do I need a power converter for Uruguay?

When you are travelling to Uruguay from a different region check that your device will accept a 230 volt power supply.

A step down power converter is needed if you are travelling from a country that uses 100-120 volts and your appliance or device isn't compatible with 230 volts. Read our WikiConnections list of world power outlets page to find out the voltage is used in your country.

You don't need a power converter if you already use either a 230 volt single voltage appliance or one that supports dual voltage.

Typically, electrical devices which are designed for a lower voltage such as 110 volts and then used with 230 volts run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your device unless you use a step down power converter.

You shouldn't need a power converter if you are attempting to recharge a smaller electrical device such as a mobile phone as these are typically support dual voltage and designed for international use, however you should always always check the device for dual voltage support first.

When powering high wattage appliances or generate heat (such as hair dryers and clothes irons) then you will need to use a much larger higher wattage heavy duty power converter to allow the appliance to be used with a 230 volt Uruguayan power outlet.

It could be more cost effective to purchase a smaller lightweight dual voltage travel appliance than carrying a much heavier high wattage power converter to Uruguay in order to use your existing domestic appliance.

How to convert 230 volts to 110 volts

If the power converter doesn't include the correct shaped plug then it will also be necessary to plug in the power cord from the power converter into a power adapter for Uruguay before plugging that into a Uruguayan power outlet.

Some power converters include the ability to perform both step up and step down voltage conversions, therefore it may be necessary to manually switch the converter to output the voltage to the 110-120 volt range.

Plug your appliance into the converter and turn the power on, your 110-120 volt appliance can now be used with a 230 volt Uruguayan power outlet. [10]

What voltage is used in Uruguay?

What is the difference between a converter and a transformer?

Converters and transformers are both used to change one voltage to another, but this ambiguity can cause confusion as their purposes are different:

Power converters are designed for simple electrical appliances which typically generate heat or use motors such as clothes irons, shavers or hair dryers. Transformers are designed for more complex electronic items such as televisions or games consoles.

Buying a power converter is cheaper than buying a power transformer.

Power transformers are larger and heavier making them more suited for permanent residential use; for example an expat wishing to use an imported television would need to use a transformer for this purpose.

Power converters are more suitable for travellers wishing to bring domestic appliances abroad such as hair dryers or flat irons. However, it is more practical and cost effective to purchase a dual voltage appliance designed for travel rather than a heavier power converter.

Power converters are suitable for 2 pin ungrounded appliances, it could be harder to find a converter if you want to use a grounded 3 pin appliance.

Transformers can be used constantly however it is recommended that converters are used for no longer than a couple of hours at a time.

Shops may sell transformers under the name of converters, for the purposes this guide we will be referring to both converters and transformers as converters.

Dual voltage hair dryer

What voltage is my appliance?

The easiest method to see if a appliance is dual voltage is to look for numbers printed on the power plug or on the unit itself, typically near to where the power cord plugs into. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your appliance and could also state in the instruction manual.

Single voltage devices could have a specific number - such as 220V.

Single voltage devices could also have a small voltage range (around 20 volts) with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V.

Dual voltage devices will typically say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 110/240V.

How many electrical items will you be bringing to Uruguay?

Remember to take into account that you might own more electrical devices at a later date. Are you thinking about purchasing a new tablet computer soon?

There are an increasing number of USB powered rechargeable devices such as electric shavers which utilise USB as their power source. Therefore next time you replace a device it might use a USB adapter so check that your travel adapter has enough spare ports to support these as well.

Will you be travelling with a partner who might need to charge their phones?

How many Uruguayan power outlets will be available?

The accommodation in Uruguay may only offer one wall outlet, this will present a problem when recharging the batteries of more than one electronic device overnight as you'll only be able to recharge a single device at a time after each device has finished charging.

What is your budget?

A cheap power adapter starts from around under C$10 which powers only one single device in Uruguay (provided that is compatible with 230 volts or is dual voltage) but paying anywhere C$25-C$30 allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously and use them in multiple countries.

Is Uruguay the only location you intend to visit?

Single power adapters will typically only operate in a single country which they are made for, so if you want to travel to more than a single country then you may need to bring additional power adapters which can add to the weight you have to pack.

Are you flying long haul to get to Uruguay?

For extended journeys think about an appropriate charger which is perfect for airports that works in different outlet types, one that can be packed in carry-on luggage and can charge phones and tablets.

Because not all airlines have power outlets we recommend bringing a battery portable charger for recharging on the go. When arriving you could need to use your mobile phone for making calls, sending texts, using sat nav or reading your itinerary; therefore please ensure that your phone will have enough battery power left. [4]

Would you like to use your charger when returning to Canada?

Will the area of Uruguay you are staying in have reliable access to electrical power?

Power might often fluctuate in Uruguay and this can potentially cause damage to your devices, so you will need to look for a power adapter which has surge protection built in such as a travel power strip.

Due to Uruguay suffering with power outages and having partial access to power in certain regions you might find that whatever power charger you use won't work anyway. Packing a portable charger or a solar backpack will prepare you for a power cut and areas of limited electricity coverage. [4][4][17]

A list of Apple iPads which are compatible with a Uruguayan power outlet

Corrections

We endeavor to ensure all details on this page are correct and relevant to travellers visiting Uruguay, if you wish to contribute any useful information or feedback please email travel@wikiconnections.org. For more comprehensive technical details visit the Wikipedia page on AC power plugs and sockets. [21]

Disclaimer

WikiConnections is not responsible for any injury or damage caused due to using any type of suggested product with any other electrical device or appliance in any location, full details are available on the disclaimer page. All functions and capabilities should be checked prior to purchasing or using any power adapter. Assumptions on if any power adapter, charger, converter or power strip works in any location is based on data from publicly available sources and if it fits the primary power outlet used in that country. WikiConnections has not taken into consideration other less common power outlets which might be found as these might only be used in certain areas or in the process of being phased out.

Where possible, WikiConnections only recommends the type of product as being suitable along with alternatives and does not make any endorsement for any specific brand or product. Always check with the manufacturer to ensure full compatibility prior to attempting to use any device. Always check the reputation of the manufacturer and product to ensure the quality and safety of any electrical device being used.

Solar backpack - A solar backpack will charge USB devices or an internal power bank when left in sunlight, estimated cost C$120-C$130.

Solar power bank - Portable power bank with solar cells which can recharge when placed in sunlight and power any USB powered device, under C$60.

Power converter - A step up step down power converter converts 110-120 volts up to 220-240 volts and 220-240 volts down to 110-120 Volts, priced at C$70-C$80.

Heavy duty power converter - A 5000 watt heavy duty step up and step down power converter used to convert voltages for domestic appliances, power tools, televisions, heating appliances and motors, costing under C$280.